Shotgun murder at Alpine campground

Sheriff's helicopter orders suspect to the ground

A 73-year-old resident of the Ma-Tar-Awa campground, which sits on reservation land just east of Viejas Casino, is in custody and facing murder charges following an altercation with a neighbor on Sunday afternoon, March 9.

According to a report from sheriff lieutenant Glenn Giannantonio, Leland Clyde engaged in an argument with Jock Martin, a fellow resident of the RV park, which offers both long-term residential and recreational camping sites. During the dispute, Clyde produced a shotgun and fired at Martin, then returned to his trailer to retrieve more ammunition.

Martin's brother emerged from his trailer at the sound of gunfire and, after being confronted by Clyde with a reloaded gun, fled on foot to call for assistance.

A sheriff's helicopter was dispatched to the scene and ordered Clyde to the ground, monitoring him until deputies arrived on the ground. Martin was declared dead on the scene, and Clyde was arrested on suspicion of murder.